Facilitators Manual - Emergency Care Institute

FACILITATORs’ Manual Transition to Emergency Nursing3.15 MENTAL HEALTHACTIVITY 59What plans do you have in place in your emergency department to manage mental health patients?Include in your response the physical environment, resources such as clinical roles, safe rooms and localguidelines for these patients.Discuss. As per individual emergency department policy and guidelines.3.16 DRUGS AND ALCOHOLACTIVITY 60: BenzodiazepinesDiscuss with participant as required or appropriate.28Q1:What does the onset and duration of benzodiazepine withdrawal depend upon?Length of time used.Amount used.Concurrent use of benzodiazepines, i.e. alcohol and opiates.The type of benzodiazepine used.Q2. List five side effects of the benzodiazepines.Sedation.Reduced co-ordination.Muscle weakness.Depression.Dry mouth.Lethargy and fatigue.Memory loss.ACTIVITY 61: StimulantsDiscuss with participants as required or appropriate.Q1. What are the effects of stimulants?Euphoria, increased energy, over-confidence.Suppressed appetite.Increased psychomotor performance, increased talkativeness.Jaw clenching, sweats, rapid or irregular heart rate.Q2. Describe the principles of managing amphetamine withdrawal.Treat symptomatically as symptoms arise.Hydration and nutrition.Most withdrawal symptoms disappear after two weeks to a month.Other strategies include support groups, relaxation techniques, sleep, hygiene, counselling.Q3. What nursing actions would you take if one of your patients started displaying psychotic symptoms?Monitor patient.Request medical review – patient may require further medication.Inform colleagues.Stay with patient and remove any equipment that may be used as a weapon. Ensure patient, self andothers’ safety.Remain calm, reassure patient. Try to reduce stimulation in the patient’s room (ie maintain low noiselevels, reduce number of staff, restrict visitors).